What If?

Chapter 2

I walk out of the shadows and into the light for the first time. Back into the world I once knew. I can see Pooka following behind me as a peer through the corner of my eye. He yawns. This is boring to him. I try not to laugh so instead I smile.

"My Anastasia!" Grandmama said as I took her hand.

In front of me, the lights were on me, the crowd bowing to me. I felt like the crown jewel of the ball.

Is this really happening? Am I really here? This is my home.

"If only Dimitri were here," I mumble to myself.

"Welcome one and all, I am very grateful that my granddaughter Anastasia can join me again and join us here today where she belongs," Grandmama said proudly with tears in her eyes.

"Oh, Grandmama." I exhaled as I embraced her. Then she gestured I tell something to the crowd.

As I turn, I see a familiar face....

It's Vlad. I smile. 

Maybe Dimitri is behind him? 

He frowns as if he knew what I was thinking. I know Vlad misses him, after all, they were partners.

I focus on the crowd once more. I smile at them.

"I am so glad to be here with you tonight. Thank you for coming. I can't wait to meet you all...again."

The crowd starts laughing along with me.

"Now let's dance! Continue the music."

The crowd applauds and begins to dance again.

I sit next to my Grandmama. I put Pooka on my lap. He seemed so sad.

"You miss Dimitri, don't you Pooka?" I whisper in his ear. His sad puppy eyes confirm that he did.

"Everything alright dear?" Grandmama asked.

 "I don't know. Something is wrong with Pooka. He isn't himself." I replied.

I take Pooka with me behind the curtains. Hopefully, I can help him and myself to stop thinking about Dimitri.

Suddenly Pooka's ears perk up. He starts wagging his tail. I hear footsteps getting closer. 

Could it be? Is it...?

*Dimitri!*